Changes to the welfare system, including the move from Disability Living Allowance to Personal Independence Payment, the “bedroom tax”, and the introduction of a benefit cap, have adversely affected the lives of many old, poor, and disabled people throughout the UK. Additionally, the significant number of women who perform carer roles has meant that they too are a victim of any welfare changes.

With a continuous supply of misinformation about scroungers and dole cheats, it becomes easy to see how this culture is able to thrive. Recent surveys have suggested that the British public think claimants “lie about their circumstances in order to obtain higher welfare benefits or deliberately refuse to take work where suitable jobs are available”.

No wonder so many people think their own families are net losers from the tax and spend system: they believe a substantial chunk of their rising tax bill is being used to support people who are wrongly pocketing large amounts of welfare cash. Prospect, A Quiet Revolution

Scotland has very different needs from its southern neighbours. Its population is more geographically displaced; Scottish people die younger; it’s colder; cancer rates are higher; and there is lower growth in the working age population.

Just because you have a hammer, doesn’t mean every problem is a nail. With independence, it will be for the Scottish Parliament and future Scottish governments to determine the future direction of the welfare system in Scotland.

Independence will provide the opportunity to create a fairer, more equal society, built around the needs of citizens.

“Independence will provide the opportunity”, is the key phrase. Scotland is not being handed anything on a plate. However, the Westminster alternative would not help Scotland move towards a position where it can …

[build] a welfare system, based on clear principles and values that: supports people who work; provides support for people who cannot work; and fosters a climate of social solidarity

This is not about the current government and how Scotland hates Cameron and Clegg, but there’s no getting away from the fact that there is currently no Westminster solution to specific Scottish welfare needs. A vote against independence is a vote for the political framework which got us into this situation.

Scotland’s future is not guaranteed, whichever the result this week. But the trends are clear; and there are distinct health and social benefits to voting Yes to Scottish independence.